Christopher Armand Taylor Jr. Bio
Christopher Armand Taylor Jr. (born August 29, 1990), nicknamed “CT3”, is an American professional baseball utility player who is currently a free agent. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Los Angeles Angels. Taylor played college baseball for the Virginia Cavaliers and was selected in the fifth round of the 2012 MLB draft. He made his MLB debut with the Mariners in 2014 and has since achieved notable success, including winning the National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player Award in 2017, being a member of the World Series champions in 2020 and 2024, and earning an All-Star selection in 2021.
Early Life and Background
Christopher Taylor was born and raised in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He attended Frank W. Cox High School, where he focused on baseball after initially participating in wrestling. Taylor’s talent on the field was recognized when he was named the All-Tidewater region Player of the Year in 2009. After high school, he continued his education and baseball career at the University of Virginia, where he played for the Cavaliers baseball team in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Path to Baseball
During his freshman year at the University of Virginia, Taylor played sparingly as the starting shortstop position was held by Tyler Cannon, an All-ACC player. However, he seized his opportunity and became the starting shortstop after an injury to Cannon. Taylor’s performance in college baseball, including a pivotal two-out single that drove in the tying and winning runs in the Charlottesville Super Regional against UC Irvine, helped propel the Cavaliers to the College World Series. His collegiate success led to his selection by the Seattle Mariners in the 2012 MLB draft.
Christopher Armand Taylor Jr. Career
Early Career (2014-2016)
Taylor began his professional career in Minor League Baseball after being drafted by the Seattle Mariners. He quickly progressed through the ranks, showcasing his skills primarily as a shortstop. In 2013, he played for the High Desert Mavericks and Jackson Generals, finishing the season with an impressive .314 batting average. His performance earned him the Mariners’ minor league player of the year award. Taylor made his MLB debut on July 24, 2014, collecting his first hit against the Baltimore Orioles. Over the next two seasons, he faced challenges, including injuries, but continued to develop his skills.
Breakthrough (2017)
Taylor’s career took a significant turn in 2017 after being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers. He quickly made an impact, hitting his first major league home run—a grand slam—on July 15, 2016. In the 2017 season, Taylor emerged as a versatile player, contributing significantly in various positions. He was named co-MVP of the National League Championship Series after hitting his first postseason home run and played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ run to the World Series.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Taylor has been recognized for his contributions on the field, including being named an All-Star in 2021. He has also achieved significant milestones, such as hitting his 100th career home run in June 2023, becoming the first player to hit grand slams for both his first and 100th career homers. Taylor’s resilience and adaptability have made him a valuable asset to his teams, especially during critical postseason moments.
Christopher Armand Taylor Jr. Award Nominations
Christopher Taylor has received several nominations throughout his career, highlighting his exceptional performances in Major League Baseball. His recognition as an All-Star in 2021 and co-MVP of the National League Championship Series in 2017 are among the notable accolades he has achieved.
Christopher Armand Taylor Jr. Awards Won
Taylor has won multiple prestigious awards during his career, including being a two-time World Series champion in 2020 and 2024, and the National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player in 2017. These achievements underscore his impact and contributions to his teams’ successes.
Christopher Armand Taylor Jr. Family
Christopher Taylor is married, having wed his wife in December 2022 in Waialua, Hawaii. The couple welcomed their first child in 2023, marking a new chapter in their family life.
Personal Life
Taylor’s family has a history of athleticism, with both his father and grandfather having competed in wrestling at Virginia Tech. This background likely influenced his early involvement in sports, including his transition from wrestling to baseball. Taylor continues to maintain a balance between his professional career and personal life, enjoying time with his family while pursuing his passion for baseball.
